US Social Security form 21

Tumbleweed0,       

I have no idea on the form. For the banking I use HSBC. We have lived in Shanghai, Singapore and now HCMC. The ATM card works fine everywhere in Asia. No problem transfers between accounts or wire transfers. Opening an account in HCM requires a bit more in Its process which I have not done yet.

If I recall correctly from the other thread, it seemed from the forms that they were only mandatory for non-citizens receiving social security.  As you are on disability the rules may be completely different.  This might be particularly true if your disability was not deemed permanent.

One thing that would seem certain is that if you fill out the form indicating that you are residing in Vietnam, you will be picking up your checks at the embassy or consulate.  Vietnam is still not on what is called country list 6:  https://www.ssa.gov/international/countrylist6.htm  This is not too bad if you live in Hanoi or HCMC but it would be a real pain if you live elsewhere.

You also might want to check out page 18 of this publication:  https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10137.pdf 

Here is a questionnaire to determine if you can leave the country and still get benefits:  https://www.ssa.gov/international/payme … ideUS.html  It seems you can fill it out anonymously.

Finally, we all love to give armchair legal advice gratis here, but it does seem that you really should see a lawyer and in particular, one who specializes in social security issues.

You don't have to have a bank here. I direct deposit to my Schwab  Bank in the states. I still think it is kinda safer to keep my dough on that side of the pacific. I withdraw from ATMs here. Schwab has no ATM fees, some other banks have low fees and other benefits.
Google 'nerdwallet checking' for bank card reviews.
(Actually I maintain 2 different US checking accounts and 2 credit cards just in case a card breaks or expires way over here. With internet banking setup of course for transfers, bill paying.)

Thanks for your replies all. I have discovered the main reason I have to use this form is because it involves a continuation of my eligibility requirements for my disability. I have also decided to keep my money on the other side of the pond. If this move turns into a long term deal then I will look into other banking options.

Thanks for the responses,

Tom